Three owners and masters of foreign-registered yachts in Fiji have been charged with violating Customs regulations by providing charter and paid cruising services within the country’s waters. This enforcement action comes as the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) ramps up measures to address the misuse of Customs concessions allocated to visiting yachts under Concession Code 228, Schedule 2 of the Customs Tariff Act 1986.
Investigations have uncovered that these yachts, which were only permitted for temporary importation for personal use, had engaged in commercial operations, thus breaching the strict importation conditions. Fiji’s Customs laws stipulate that yachts are eligible for duty concessions only if utilized strictly for non-commercial, personal activities. Activities such as chartering or transporting paying passengers significantly contravene these regulations, leading to mandatory payment of full duties and potential penalties which could reach $25,000 or even carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
The FRCS Chief Executive, Udit Singh, emphasized the authority’s dedication to protecting Fiji’s border integrity while assuring fair treatment for compliant operators. “These concessions are designed to promote marine tourism and make Fiji an attractive destination for visiting yachts,” Singh stated. He voiced concerns that the misuse of these concessions not only undermines the system but places legitimate operators at a disadvantage and deprives the country of needed revenue.
In light of these infractions, the FRCS is urging yacht owners, masters, and agents to adhere strictly to the conditions of temporary importation. Those intending to conduct any business during their time in Fiji must obtain the necessary approvals and pay any applicable duties and taxes. Additionally, the FRCS encourages the public to report any suspected customs violations, reinforcing a collaborative effort to maintain lawful maritime operations.
As Fiji enhances its border security measures and fortifies its tourism sector, the emphasis remains on encouraging proactive compliance to ensure that the advantages of marine tourism are fully realized, thereby bolstering the country’s economic resilience. The focus is on fostering legitimate travel and business practices that positively impact Fiji’s flourishing marine tourism industry.